The Great Backyard Place Blog

What's the one thing between you and a relaxing swim? That's right – the side of the pool. It's too tall for you to just step in. And you're not just going to flop over the side. You may have a deck around your pool, in which case you can just jump in. But getting out is another story. You need a pool entry system. To keep your ribs (and your pride) intact, let's take a look at...
The 4 best ways to get in and out of your pool.
1) A-Frame Ladder
As the name suggests, this pool ladder... Read More

Almost everyone who's thought about installing a pool has asked the same question.
"Should I buy an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool?"
We hope this article makes the best choice clear. No two of us are in the same situation, so what we'll do is give you the facts. And you'll know which is best for you.
So, how do the two pool types stack up against each other? Let's look at the different factors in play.
1) Price
The most impactful difference between the two pool types is price. An in-ground pool can cost anywhere from 30-70K... Read More

As adults, we're still interested in how things are made, aren't we? Take in-ground pools, for example. How is an in-ground pool made? What's the process? We want to know the "how" before we jump in. To help out, here's...
How your pool is made in 7 steps.
1) Pick Your Spot
You probably already have a spot in mind. If not, you can talk with your pool installer to figure out the best place for a pool. Then they'll mark out the area and get it ready for digging. And dig they will! It'll be a big mess –... Read More

At The Great Backyard, we’re here to help you keep your pool in prime condition. And that includes helping you...
Test your pool for leaks.
A lot of small cracks can be fixed with pool putty or another simple solution. Small liner holes can be repaired with a vinyl repair kit. It’s a good idea to take a thorough – and easy – look to determine if there is a problem and how bad it is.
We have years of experience in pool construction. Based on that, we’ve written up a simple checklist for you to follow. You’ll be... Read More

More and more people are looking to install a spa for their home. After all, a spa is perfect for unwinding after a long day. But for many people, the reasons to choose an above-ground or in-ground spa are not clear right away. While price plays a big part, there are other factors. And we're here to help with some handy above-ground or in-ground spa pros and cons.
Should You Get an Aboveground or Inground Spa?
In-ground Spas
In-ground spas come with many of the same pros and cons as in-ground pools. Let's look at them.
Pros
Looks great... Read More

Summer will be here soon. For pool owners, this is when you start thinking about taking your pool out of hibernation. It’s worth it to start before the season really begins. You'll have a clean pool that looks – and feels – good for the summer.
Here's how to get your pool ready for summer in 10 simple steps.
1: Start Early
Start early in the year – and in the day. Cleaning your pool is the first step to enjoying it, so try to do it as soon as possible. You can even ask a friend to help. After... Read More

When you’re planning an in-ground pool for your home, one question rises to the top. Should I get a diving board?
When I was a kid, it wasn’t a pool if it didn’t have a diving board. It seemed like one of the basic elements of a pool. But these days, more and more people are choosing to skip the diving board. Why is that?
There are quite a few reasons. Let's look at the top 3 reasons against getting a diving board.
1) Takes Up a Lot of Space
… and not just poolside space. A diving... Read More

Having a pool is about more than swimming, isn't it. When you install a pool, you’re also looking to make your home and yard more inviting. And nothing creates a spa-like atmosphere like lush greenery.
So what trees should you plant around your pool?
For starters, keep in mind that function is just as important as form. Think about how certain trees will work with your pool, not simply how they look.
Here are some tips for planning your landscaping after your pool is installed.
What to Keep in Mind
Debris
This is the most obvious thing to consider... Read More

Water is fun. And your whole family loves your swimming pool. But as fun as it is, it can be dangerous for kids – if left unsecured. Good news! You can make sure that your pool is both fun and safe. Just take action with these 7 easy ways to secure your pool.
1) Fence It In
We're not talking about your yard fence. The best solution to secure your pool is a dedicated fence. Since chain link can be easily climbed (especially by an adventurous young child), it's not a great option. Go for a slat fence. And you... Read More

If there's one certainty in life, it’s that everybody loves a pool party.
Here at the Great Backyard Place, we’re experts in pool building and installation. And since we're around pools so much, we know a thing or two about throwing a good pool party. We've come up with 5 pool party ideas that anyone can enjoy.
Hawaiian Themed Pool Party
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. This one’s a classic, because it focuses on fun.
* Ask your guests to wear Hawaiian-themed shirts. The tackier, the better. Give a prize for the most outrageous.
... Read More